White Cockatoo

Fun Facts for Kids

• The major purpose of a cockatoo's crest is communication. When raised, it can indicate a number of intentions: displaying for its mate; calling its flock members; defending its flock or territory; or expressing curiosity, excitement, fear surprise, or frustration. If approaching a cockatoo, the raised crest may warn not to touch them - at the risk of being bitten. The lowering of a crest may indicate friendliness, calmness, and general approachability.
• The word "cockatoo" originates from the Malay word for these birds, "kakaktua," meaning "older sister”.
• As with all birds, cockatoos use their body language for communication. When birds use the feathers on their face to cover their beaks, they convey a welcoming, non-aggressive message.
• These are powder-down birds, whose feathers produce a dust that can sometimes be quite heavy. Preening distributes this dust throughout their plumage, providing important waterproofing to cope with a tropical, wet climate.
• To bathe, white cockatoos fly through wet leaves in the treetops or hang upside-down during the rain.
• White cockatoos are very smart and inquisitive birds. They are able to use a branch for scratching their backs. They also climb and do gymnastics.